I'm still rocking this after 11 years. It has had a world of hurt. I've stuffed this to the rafters with tools and all sorts day in day out working all over as a freelance lighting engineer. It's still holding up and it's been through hell and back
I wish I could buy another from new today. About once a year I empty it and chuck it in the washing machine and it comes out like new. You know the old expression...buy cheap buy twice. The quality of this bag is incredible. If only everything was made to last like this
I have a version that I believe is from 2008, used it all the way from middle school to 15 years later! There's a little rip between 2 of the sections but I could probably sew it closed when I have time. Also I had to replace the zipper pulls. Otherwise still in perfect shape!
Same - I used to use it to cycle vigorously to work for a number of years and then as my main work and leisure backpack. It's travelled all around the world, and it basically still looks like new today. Unbelievable.
Exactly the same here! Apparently the new version is nowhere near as good. I'll be leaving mine to my future grandchildren and they can leave it to theirs.. :D
you have a way of saying something funny without meaning to but still delivering an awesome informative video. it makes your videos fun to watch while I still learn.
Yes they are fantastic. The surge is the only backpack i have ever had that does not caused me sholder and neck pain. If you look at the straps at the top of the bag you will see they are mounted very wide apart. Most bags hardly have any space between the straps. This means they do not cut into the trapezius in the same way as a standard bag and that mens the tension does not run down the back.
I have had this backpack for years. I honestly feel they took so many things away for the upgraded versions. Only now it is falling apart. And looking at the 2021 version I feel they took the administrative pockets so downsized. I am looking at my bag now and looking at videos of how I have things arranged how will it go in the 2021 version and feel a few things improved esp for laptop and tablet but the pocket situation is just a sad commentary. Unless I can find another used version...even the the 2015 version I found they were removing the admin pockets less and less. I actually found this for $20 brand new at a 2nd hand store in NYC waaay back in 2013 and well 9 years later time to either find a new version or look at other brands too. Have considered the Ogio Renegade RSS but seeing the pocket and administrative options on many bags is lacking. Great review!
I'm in the same boat as you. I've had this bag 11 years and it a little tired in the main compartments but still great. I want this model brand new right now. Best backpack ever
@@lymskiUK I did find a few on eBay am scoured and found a green one (my fave color on Poshmark). So I bought 2! One is green and the other is blue and black and are the older models like this. One was new and the green was used but still in great condition. I would still like to find a black one which had the nice hard back. The blue and green do not have it but have everything else esp the admin pockets and the extra compartment on the bottom of the bag. Hope you find one or two as well!!
I agree, I'd really like to see his review. What did you think of it from just checking it out on TNF site? I personally don't like the facelift and loss of the front-flap external pocket with the clip.
get the surge, if you havent already. i have had one for 4 years and it is the best thing ever. absolutely wonderful hold up, space for everything, comfortable, you name it
Can you review The North Face Mainframe? I've been looking at getting either the Surge or the Mainframe, but I can't find any good reviews of the Mainframe on the web. Hopefully you can do a review on the Mainframe so I can know for certain which backpack to get. Thanks!!
good work. just so you know, the reason there are two zippers on front is so that you can swing the bag around to the front of you and access the front compartment with either hand, depending on whether you are left or right handed, without taking the bag off. Also the bottom compartment is a laptop charger / leads but i like your idea more actually.
Bought this model in 2010 for grad school. Used the heck out of it every day for three years and has been my weekend and EDC bag ever since. 11 years later and still going strong. Amazing quality.
@@flowermaze___ I would go for a slightly bigger bag. This bag has a lot of pockets and as a result the main compartment is not as big as it could be. It is an excellent commuter, school, and overnight bag.
My wife bought this when we first met and had my name etched into it. It has been on every adventure with us since. I have tactical military packs, but for single day events - this backpack is the #1 choice. I need to check out the newer models
Well the laptop pocket it quite big so an iPad might waste a bit of space in there, unless you fill it with books too. The middle zip pocket is very spacious though so if you have roughly the same amount of books as me then go for this one. Its very sturdy and strongly built. It is rather expensive so I would go to an outdoor shop and have a look at which one you want first. But this is a great bag.
overall a nice design, but I don't like that the laptop compartment zipper doesn't have a rain flap, the key lanyard is too deep inside (you have to get through 2 zippers and the pocket is in the middle of the bag instead of top) and i wish it was hydration compatible (a hole in the bag for the tube wouldn't add to much weight and cost, would it?). other than that it looks like a pretty good pack with nice innovative features.
is the sternum strap removable that's the only thing i don't like sternum straps. don't get me wrong im gonna get one of these anyway because this review has convinced me :D
Good backpack for college and/or a day trip. However do you think it's good enough if I wanted to carry a dslr and a couple lenses along with stuff for a trip? Right now I have a camera bag plus another bag for the trip and it's stupid having two bags. Any help?!
Ok I've started my second year of high school and have gone through two book bags in 3 weeks. So i thought i'd ask some that knows about this stuff xD i need a book bag the can fit 3 texts books, 1 inch binder, TI-84, glasses, a reading book, a water bottle, my phone, money and other small accessories. What would you recommend?
hey bud, well that depends. I bought the surge and my friend has the big shot. The big shot technically can hold more books because it hasn't got the separate zip pocket for your laptop, but if you do carry a laptop around too then i suggest the surge. On my usual uni days I put my laptop in there along with 2 big law books, 1 big economics book, my pad for writing and my filofax with a bottle of water too. So it really just depends if you take a laptop with you or not. Hope that helps =]
I have a shoulder problem that goes half on my back. It's a inflammation, what I wanted to know is that comfortable? Right now, I'm in search of a comfortable backpack.
this is one of the best made backpacks from north face. I've been using this bag for over 6 years. I highly recommend the older models, not the newer ones. the new ones aren't as well padded and premium.
Yeah I well agree. Mine is just now falling apart and the new version are a disappointment to the older versions. What were they thinking - esp taking away all the administrative pocket options is my biggest gripe about the new versions.
is there an older version of this bag? I have one but I don't think it is 31L. I like it but once I get some toiletries in the front zippered pocket and a laptop in the sleeve it doesn't leave much room in the main pouch area.
@SashaProductionsHD I saw that one after I had made that comment about a month ago. The Everki Titan was a nice backpack, but from some reviews I read the only downside to it was its durability. I ended up going with the Alienware Orion M18X and have been quite pleased with it. If for some strange reason I end up looking for another backpack, I will definitely try the Everki Titan! Thanks for the reply Sasha!
It's funny because you completely sold this bag to me when I was stuck between the Surge and Big Shot... However... YOU FORGOT THE WHISTLE ON THE CHEST STRAAPPP!!!!! hahaha It's how I announce myself to my house mates when I get home from Uni.
Which part of my comment do you dispute? thta he is just reading specs off a website? That there are many pauses while he does this, and he says things like "um, where was that"? tht the tags are still on? That it's his friends, not his? that he has clearly never actually *used* it, and tells us nothign about the xperience of anyone who has? So -- which part of my post do you dispute?
I didn't dispute any of it. I simply stated that you have no idea what the point of his channel is. I believe I was pretty clear in that. I also told you to stop being a troll. Have a nice day.
Not so much a review, as a guy reading the features off a website hwile he holds the bad up (and he clearly had not even prepared before starting filming). He has never even used it, the tags are still on, in fact it belongs to his friend. Maybe his friend can post a comment that is an actual review, since he's presumably actually used it.
I'm still rocking this after 11 years. It has had a world of hurt. I've stuffed this to the rafters with tools and all sorts day in day out working all over as a freelance lighting engineer. It's still holding up and it's been through hell and back
I wish I could buy another from new today. About once a year I empty it and chuck it in the washing machine and it comes out like new. You know the old expression...buy cheap buy twice. The quality of this bag is incredible. If only everything was made to last like this
same here man🤣
I have a version that I believe is from 2008, used it all the way from middle school to 15 years later! There's a little rip between 2 of the sections but I could probably sew it closed when I have time. Also I had to replace the zipper pulls. Otherwise still in perfect shape!
Same - I used to use it to cycle vigorously to work for a number of years and then as my main work and leisure backpack. It's travelled all around the world, and it basically still looks like new today. Unbelievable.
Exactly the same here! Apparently the new version is nowhere near as good. I'll be leaving mine to my future grandchildren and they can leave it to theirs.. :D
I have this. Its 2021. Abused it for more than 10 years traveling around the world. Color abit faded but NOT a stitch broken or torn. Amazing.
Snap. It's amazing. I want to buy one again damn it!
I've had this bag for over a month now and wasn't aware there were pockets for the waist belt. Or the extra pockets on side mesh pockets. Thank you!
you have a way of saying something funny without meaning to but still delivering an awesome informative video. it makes your videos fun to watch while I still learn.
let's be real, this is the greatest school/college backpack ever created. padded bottom of the laptop compartment is awesome.
well agreed!
I've been using this pack for over a year, and it's fantastic. Still looks like new and I use it pretty much everyday to school etc.
Yes they are fantastic. The surge is the only backpack i have ever had that does not caused me sholder and neck pain. If you look at the straps at the top of the bag you will see they are mounted very wide apart. Most bags hardly have any space between the straps. This means they do not cut into the trapezius in the same way as a standard bag and that mens the tension does not run down the back.
Very thorough review, answered all my questions. I'm sold! Awesome job
I have had this backpack for years. I honestly feel they took so many things away for the upgraded versions. Only now it is falling apart. And looking at the 2021 version I feel they took the administrative pockets so downsized. I am looking at my bag now and looking at videos of how I have things arranged how will it go in the 2021 version and feel a few things improved esp for laptop and tablet but the pocket situation is just a sad commentary. Unless I can find another used version...even the the 2015 version I found they were removing the admin pockets less and less. I actually found this for $20 brand new at a 2nd hand store in NYC waaay back in 2013 and well 9 years later time to either find a new version or look at other brands too. Have considered the Ogio Renegade RSS but seeing the pocket and administrative options on many bags is lacking. Great review!
I'm in the same boat as you. I've had this bag 11 years and it a little tired in the main compartments but still great. I want this model brand new right now. Best backpack ever
@@lymskiUK I did find a few on eBay am scoured and found a green one (my fave color on Poshmark). So I bought 2!
One is green and the other is blue and black and are the older models like this. One was new and the green was used but still in great condition.
I would still like to find a black one which had the nice hard back. The blue and green do not have it but have everything else esp the admin pockets and the extra compartment on the bottom of the bag.
Hope you find one or two as well!!
@@greenvortex7 I need to look again. I'd definately want the black one. Glad you found your 2!
I agree, I'd really like to see his review. What did you think of it from just checking it out on TNF site? I personally don't like the facelift and loss of the front-flap external pocket with the clip.
get the surge, if you havent already. i have had one for 4 years and it is the best thing ever. absolutely wonderful hold up, space for everything, comfortable, you name it
Just bought a Recon Backpack recently but I might get this one too! It looks good and I like the design!
Can you review The North Face Mainframe? I've been looking at getting either the Surge or the Mainframe, but I can't find any good reviews of the Mainframe on the web. Hopefully you can do a review on the Mainframe so I can know for certain which backpack to get. Thanks!!
good work. just so you know, the reason there are two zippers on front is so that you can swing the bag around to the front of you and access the front compartment with either hand, depending on whether you are left or right handed, without taking the bag off. Also the bottom compartment is a laptop charger / leads but i like your idea more actually.
im a senior in high school and i like to take this bag mountain biking too and its great!
Bought this model in 2010 for grad school. Used the heck out of it every day for three years and has been my weekend and EDC bag ever since. 11 years later and still going strong. Amazing quality.
Nice! How would this go as an overseas travel only one bag?
@@flowermaze___ I would go for a slightly bigger bag. This bag has a lot of pockets and as a result the main compartment is not as big as it could be. It is an excellent commuter, school, and overnight bag.
@@Jpforney thank you kindly!!
My wife bought this when we first met and had my name etched into it. It has been on every adventure with us since. I have tactical military packs, but for single day events - this backpack is the #1 choice. I need to check out the newer models
Well the laptop pocket it quite big so an iPad might waste a bit of space in there, unless you fill it with books too. The middle zip pocket is very spacious though so if you have roughly the same amount of books as me then go for this one. Its very sturdy and strongly built. It is rather expensive so I would go to an outdoor shop and have a look at which one you want first. But this is a great bag.
overall a nice design, but I don't like that the laptop compartment zipper doesn't have a rain flap, the key lanyard is too deep inside (you have to get through 2 zippers and the pocket is in the middle of the bag instead of top) and i wish it was hydration compatible (a hole in the bag for the tube wouldn't add to much weight and cost, would it?). other than that it looks like a pretty good pack with nice innovative features.
@randomrazr btw ever heard of have any input on backpacks from "incase" ?
could use the bottom pocket underneath to hold laptop/netbook charger
is the sternum strap removable that's the only thing i don't like sternum straps. don't get me wrong im gonna get one of these anyway because this review has convinced me :D
@mellowlover didn the tag say it wasone of the best to prevent back pain?
Good backpack for college and/or a day trip. However do you think it's good enough if I wanted to carry a dslr and a couple lenses along with stuff for a trip? Right now I have a camera bag plus another bag for the trip and it's stupid having two bags. Any help?!
it doesn't have the two bottom straps anymore like the recon. sadd..
Love the whistle! You like this one over the Recon?
Very thorough review. Just purchased it online and can't wait to get it.
I got this backpack because I have shoulders too
This or the hot shot base camp? I love the waterproof material on the base camp, but this backpack is sooo good. :(
thanks for the in depth review, I purchased this backpack shortly after watching this.
...what type of Surge series is this called? because TNF Surge these days don't have the bottom pockets. this one is perfect.
Nice review and which one do you use?
Ok I've started my second year of high school and have gone through two book bags in 3 weeks. So i thought i'd ask some that knows about this stuff xD i need a book bag the can fit 3 texts books, 1 inch binder, TI-84, glasses, a reading book, a water bottle, my phone, money and other small accessories. What would you recommend?
Thanks for posting this TNF Surge review!!
@ImSoVVasted Although a bit on the high end the Everki Titan might be a good fit for you.
do you have a link to find this bag?
Does the backpack have any pockets? How bout any that have zippers?
hey bud, well that depends. I bought the surge and my friend has the big shot. The big shot technically can hold more books because it hasn't got the separate zip pocket for your laptop, but if you do carry a laptop around too then i suggest the surge. On my usual uni days I put my laptop in there along with 2 big law books, 1 big economics book, my pad for writing and my filofax with a bottle of water too. So it really just depends if you take a laptop with you or not. Hope that helps =]
I have a shoulder problem that goes half on my back. It's a inflammation, what I wanted to know is that comfortable?
Right now, I'm in search of a comfortable backpack.
this is one of the best made backpacks from north face. I've been using this bag for over 6 years. I highly recommend the older models, not the newer ones. the new ones aren't as well padded and premium.
Yeah I well agree. Mine is just now falling apart and the new version are a disappointment to the older versions. What were they thinking - esp taking away all the administrative pocket options is my biggest gripe about the new versions.
whats that isacs loop thing for at the bottom for?
This is actually one of the best edc backpacks I've found that doesn't make you look like a wall mart military wannabe.
do a review of the northface jester and vault please
is there an older version of this bag? I have one but I don't think it is 31L. I like it but once I get some toiletries in the front zippered pocket and a laptop in the sleeve it doesn't leave much room in the main pouch area.
0:40 "I got a lower back" Me too! High-five!
Do you think this would be good for a BOB/survival backpack?
@SashaProductionsHD I saw that one after I had made that comment about a month ago. The Everki Titan was a nice backpack, but from some reviews I read the only downside to it was its durability. I ended up going with the Alienware Orion M18X and have been quite pleased with it. If for some strange reason I end up looking for another backpack, I will definitely try the Everki Titan! Thanks for the reply Sasha!
Ice Axe! Gotta have one of those.
I need a backpack that holds an 18.4" screen laptop... this seems not to be the one to do that, anyone have any suggestions?
How big is the laptop compartment? Because I have a 17.3" laptop and wanted to know if it would fit...
Hi, would you do a review on jansport odyssey 39?
Great review... Iove this bp.. But i can't find it here (argentina)
What do you think is better, Surge or Surge II?
How would this go as an overseas travel only one bag?
It's funny because you completely sold this bag to me when I was stuck between the Surge and Big Shot... However...
YOU FORGOT THE WHISTLE ON THE CHEST STRAAPPP!!!!! hahaha
It's how I announce myself to my house mates when I get home from Uni.
Dude do you know of any great trading forums ?
is this a good school backpack
I also have a lower back
which is better this or the recon??
what do you clip to those straps??
Can't wait for your review of TNFSurge II (2)!
Would you recommend Surge or Recon?
how much is the bag ?
Thanks for the video! I think I'm leaning towards buying this one!
Awesome video on a awesome bag
I can't find this specific backpack ?!?! Where can I get it please !!!!
Cella Moos it’s the 2011 version
You're being kinda rough with your friend's backpack lol... Great review!
Is the pack water resistant?
I been trying to get on but I don't know wear they seek it !!!! Can anyone tell me where can I buy one ???
WOW amazing bookbag
should i get the surge or the surge 2
This is an amazing review!
0:40....I got a lower back too!
Does anyone know where we can still get the original Surge? I like it a lot more than the Surge II. Thanks!
David C amazon
Good review! Thanks!
can it fit a 17 inch laptop?
Great Review!
Which part of my comment do you dispute? thta he is just reading specs off a website? That there are many pauses while he does this, and he says things like "um, where was that"? tht the tags are still on? That it's his friends, not his? that he has clearly never actually *used* it, and tells us nothign about the xperience of anyone who has? So -- which part of my post do you dispute?
this is literally the best backpack in the world.
This is just a request for more pack reviews.. :-)
Eu tenho uma aqui no Brasil nova
BEST REVIEW EVER!!!!
i like helpful people, cheers mate
Be careful folks buying a North Face backpack, especially the surge on eBay. There are a BUNCH of fake ones trying to pass off as new on eBay.
I didn't dispute any of it. I simply stated that you have no idea what the point of his channel is. I believe I was pretty clear in that. I also told you to stop being a troll. Have a nice day.
I'm just a bit disappointed about the lack of zipper pockets on this bag
"Anatomically correct fit which minimizes lower back strains"
That's nice, I got a lower back xD
This guy should do this for a living... North Face should pick him up..
very good review
You didn't give a review, but a tour around the backpack. I want to know what it is like to actually use it. Better luck next time
His "tour" around the backpack gives us a great idea of its features and how it can be used.
for next time, just remember that you must try it on you. We all one to know how it looks on your back!
i got a lower back
@CSB417 seriously....purchased the bag before i saw this review and learned about so many features that i was unaware of
Did he just finger the bag at 8:39? hahahah
buteh the fact that teh
Surge.
Not so much a review, as a guy reading the features off a website hwile he holds the bad up (and he clearly had not even prepared before starting filming). He has never even used it, the tags are still on, in fact it belongs to his friend.
Maybe his friend can post a comment that is an actual review, since he's presumably actually used it.
2000 liters? lol